Washington HB1956 aims to address the shortage of public defense attorneys and staff by creating a training program and a paralegal pool.

Washington HB1956 recognizes a critical shortage of public defense attorneys and professional staff, which impedes the right to counsel and due process. The bill mandates the creation of a training program for public defense mitigation specialists and paralegals, incorporating public defense standards, client communication, and ethical standards. The program can be offered in-person or remotely and includes networking opportunities. Recruitment for the training program targets justice-impacted persons and formerly incarcerated individuals with relevant experience.

Washington HB1956 aims to address the shortage of public defense attorneys and staff by creating a training program and a paralegal pool.

Washington HB1956 recognizes a critical shortage of public defense attorneys and professional staff, which impedes the right to counsel and due process. The bill mandates the creation of a training program for public defense mitigation specialists and paralegals, incorporating public defense standards, client communication, and ethical standards. The program can be offered in-person or remotely and includes networking opportunities. Recruitment for the training program targets justice-impacted persons and formerly incarcerated individuals with relevant experience.